General Induction Training
TYPES OF HAZARDS continued
Working at heights – This includes any work on; working on the roofs of buildings, working from elevated work platforms or scaffolding, working near the edge of excavations, and working from ladders. All employees need to be properly trained and certified to work at heights. Fall arrest/ restraint equipment must be provided to all persons who work where there is a danger of falling from heights. All height safety equipment must be inspected prior to its use and regularly re-checked as required by the relevant Standard and manufacturer’s instructions.
Unplanned collapse – An unplanned collapse can pose a significant danger to construction workers. An unplanned collapse can include: The collapse of a building or structure (or part of) which is unstable before completion or demolition, Failure of a load bearing part of a crane, hoist, lifting gear or lift, the collapse of an excavation. To reduce the likelihood of injury you should be aware of any potential hazards and comply with all workplace procedures, including complying with maximum load limits and not entering exclusion zones.
Hot and cold working conditions – Weather conditions can have a big impact upon the safety and health of workers, especially in outdoor work environments. Some weather conditions will be immediately obvious such as rain or gusts of wind, others such as exposure to prolonged heat or cold are dangerous and the impact may not be realised until the damage is done. Workplaces must have safe work practices for whatever situation workers are in and have contingency plans that accommodate changing weather conditions.